GILLIS, Mary C. (Tootsie)

Northside East Bay

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother, Mary (Tootsie) Gillis on June 17, 2017 at Cape Breton Regional Hospital.

Born in Glace Bay on July 6, 1934, she was a daughter of the late Alex and Margaret MacLellan.

Mary was a PCW at the former Braemore Home and The Home for Sick Children (Sydney), she also worked in Toronto.

Mary was predeceased by her husband, Fred Gillis; daughter, Patricia; sister, Ann Marie, and brothers, Angus, Johnnie, and three siblings in infancy.

She is survived by her children, Fred (Anita), Mike (Arlene), Karen (Reggie), Heather (Derek) and Linda (Donnie); 18 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Mary is also survived by her sisters, Betty, Kay, Isabel (Richard), Marguerite (Brian), Theresa (Pat), Jessie (Archie) and Rose Marie (Danny); brothers, Danny (Carol), Paddy (Judy), Lenny, Roddie, Micheal and PJ (Jenn), and sisters-inlaw, Rosie and Shirley.

Mary, before her illness, loved going to bingo, playing cards and traditional CB concerts. She was known for her infectious laugh and beautiful smile.

The family wants to thank all involved with her care, especially the home care providers, the wonderful staff in the IMCU where she spent her final days and Dr. Virick.

Visitation will be held 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20 at T.W. Curry Parkview Chapel. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, June 21 at St. Mary’s Church, East Bay with Rev. Frank Abbass officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.

Words of comfort may be sent to her family by visiting www.twcurry.com.